Governor Otti Fast-Tracks Abia Seaport Project with Feasibility Study Approval

Governor Otti Fast-Tracks Abia Seaport Project with Feasibility Study Approval

Umuahia, Abia State – Governor Alex Otti has taken a decisive step towards realizing Abia State's long-held ambition for a functional seaport, officially approving the commencement of a feasibility study for the proposed Azumini–Obeaku seaport and inland waterways corridor project. The approval, granted on Tuesday during a meeting with a delegation from China Harbour Engineering Company Limited (CHEC) at the Government House in Umuahia, underscores the state government's commitment to boosting its economic landscape.

Call for Accelerated Timeline

Addressing the CHEC delegation, led by Nicolas Liu, Governor Otti expressed a clear desire for an accelerated timeline for the study. He firmly rejected the company's initial proposal of six to seven months, emphasizing the urgent need for swift action.

"Somehow, deep in my mind, I know that this is the approach. It is good to understand the details and all what is required," Otti stated. "So, I think you can take it that approval has been given for the feasibility study to commence. But then, you still need to come back, how do you say, six to seven months? That’s a long time. And if we can shorten it, that will help."

Concurrent Regulatory Processes

In a strategic move to streamline the project's progression, Governor Otti also directed that processes for obtaining necessary regulatory approvals begin immediately. These include clearances from key federal agencies such as the Nigerian Ports Authority, the Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, and the Presidency.

"We need to start the process immediately. Hoping that the feasibility study will return positive. Because you may also conduct the feasibility study and say that it is not viable," he explained, highlighting a dual-track approach to project development.

Addressing Viability Concerns

The Governor demonstrated a clear understanding of the technical challenges, particularly regarding the proposed site's distance from the high sea. Otti noted that the location is approximately 19 nautical miles from the open sea, a factor he acknowledged could necessitate extensive dredging. He stressed that dredging requirements would significantly impact the project's cost and overall viability.

"Maybe, when you visit, you can come up with the specifics. So, if it is about 19 nautical miles, the question of viability will now come to play. Because what it requires will now be dredging. And dredging increases the cost," he elaborated, seeking precise technical assessments.

China Harbour's Expertise and Partnership

Nicolas Liu, representing China Harbour Engineering Company Limited, affirmed the firm's keen interest in partnering with the Abia State Government on the seaport project. Liu highlighted CHEC's extensive experience in developing critical infrastructure across Nigeria, including its significant involvement in the landmark Lekki Deep Sea Port project. He outlined crucial factors for success in such ambitious undertakings, including strong government commitment, robust funding structures, effective public-private partnership arrangements, and a phased development approach.

The meeting, attended by top government officials including Principal Secretary to the Governor and Chief Strategy Officer, Chinenye Mba-Uzoukwu, and Commissioner for Transport, Chimezie Ukaegbu, marks a pivotal moment for Abia State. The speedy commencement of the feasibility study, coupled with parallel efforts for regulatory endorsements, positions the Azumini–Obeaku seaport project as a high-priority initiative with the potential to transform the state's economic landscape and regional trade.